Mohammed Kassim

What’s the best thing about your job?

The first career aspiration I had from as early as the age of 7 was to become an inventor. I loved thinking outside the box to come up with new solutions to existing problems. This is why I became an engineer. The best thing about my job is developing new – and improving existing – technologies. It takes me back to what I enjoyed as a child, only now I have the resources to see my inventions come to life. It is a very satisfying feeling.

What’s the hardest thing you’ve had to do in your job?

I worked on the design and installation of a multi-million pound, state-of-the-art dissolved acetylene plant in Immingham. This was a very challenging project where I was one of just six core engineers and by far the least experienced of my peers. Despite having a number of problems to overcome, I thoroughly enjoyed the fast-paced nature of the work as well as the wealth of knowledge I gained from colleagues. I had tremendous support and it was a lot of fun.

Is your job dangerous?

In short, no, my job is not dangerous, and neither my colleagues nor I would allow it to become dangerous. However, the substances I work with, natural gas and nitrogen, have to be handled carefully in both gas and liquid form. In liquid form both are at cryogenic temperatures (colder than -120 ^OC). We take pride in mitigating the risk of harm from these gases to keep ourselves safe.

What did you do at school?

I enjoyed studying science, maths and PE at school from primary school through to secondary education. I particularly loved physics. I also loved getting involved in extracurricular activities like debating and football.

What’s your favourite science fact?

Time travel is not possible, as proven by the late Stephen Hawking. He held a party for time-travellers, but didn’t send out the invitations until after the party. He sat there a long time, but no one came. I also like “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction”.

What are your top 5 tips for people wanting a job like yours?

– Stay enthusiastic – it is a joy to work with people enthusiastic about their work

– Play to your strengths when studying, if you are a visual learner draw things and if you prefer verbal learning then practice with a peer

– Identify what courses you should study at GCSEs, A-levels and university. Speak to someone from your school’s career guidance for assistance

– Join clubs and societies for fun, they don’t have to be linked to science and engineering. The key is to have fun and subconsciously you will be developing vital skills such as teamwork and leadership that will help you when looking for a job.

– Organise a summer placement. I have had the pleasure to manage a summer placement student who has now returned to BOC on our Graduate program.